Spinlock Rig-Sense — Instructions

Key Information

• Direct measurement of tension in kg, no conversion needed; works on wire and rope.
• Single-handed operation; it supports itself on the rig and the scale is readable from the turnbuckle.
• Adjustable central deflector (same deflection for all cable sizes), profiled stainless steel deflectors that follow the natural bend of the cable, and a composite leaf spring that cannot over-stretch and is calibrated during assembly.
• Carry bag included.

Taking a Reading

1. Pull the top slider down fully.
2. Attach the Rig-Sense to the wire with the slider pushed fully up against it; it will now hang on the rig unsupported.
3. With your thumb, push the bottom of the leaf spring so the wheel hooks onto the wire.
4. For consistent results, push the base so the pointer goes towards 0kg and release.
5. Read the tension in kg from the pointer on the leaf spring.

Caution

• Do not push the leaf spring beyond the scale.
• Do not leave it in direct sunlight for prolonged periods; store it in its bag.
• Wash it in fresh water after contact with salt water.
• Do not leave it attached to a rig for long periods (days).
• Do not disassemble it: this affects calibration.

Tuning Your Rig

• Spinlock recommends between 15–25% of the breaking strain of the wire. For a standard 1×19 stainless steel 3mm shroud this is 108kg to 180kg (approx. 720kg breaking strain).
• Most tuning guides come from new boats, which are stiffer than older ones: trying to match their very high or very low tensions can damage an older hull or rig.
• Use three easy-to-judge headings instead of wind speed, and mark control settings with coloured tape (1, 2, 3) so they can be repeated on the water.

Example layout from Spinlock's tuning sheet, not a recommendation for your boat. Mark the Rig-Sense with your boat name and a pencil reference, and tape-mark the rigging so you measure at the same place each time.